Are dental x-rays as scary as they sound?

The phobia of going to the dentist, also known as dentophobia, is one of the most common fears amongst kids, teens and adults alike. Maybe it is the fear of the unknown or a bad experience but that fear, even if irrational, takes over you so much that it makes it hard for you to go to the dentist for treatment. Well, it is safe to say that researching about the processes and the dental clinic you plan to see could calm down your anxiety and reassure you that going to the dentist is not as bad as you think. Let’s explore the first process of a dental treatment, dental X-rays.

X-Rays Help in Diagnosis

So a dentist can do an oral examination to determine the cause of your problem, but an X-ray gives the dentist a detailed insight in what is going on inside and between your teeth. Also, places such as the tips of roots and bones underneath gums cannot be seen through the naked eye, thus a dental x-ray is needed in order to rule out ailments and to make a diagnosis of any isolated or specific dental issues that you may be suffering with.

The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) states that since x-rays can show the roots of your teeth, they can also check to see if any masses, cysts or abscesses are growing. Usually, dental x-rays are used to determine the extent of the decay happening inside your tooth and to check for cavities. X-rays also help to determine whether wisdom teeth are growing, and can also show if a sufferer of periodontal disease is losing a lot of bone mass.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

Dental X-rays, due to the advancement of technology are safer due the minimization of radiation, so exposure from a dental x-ray is not really harmful. Using digital x-rays is even more useful as it further reduces exposure to radiation. Most dental clinics make their patients wear a leaded apron and collar over the abdominal area and thyroid for protection. You should inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or pregnant, but necessary x-rays do not need to be avoided as long as you are wearing your protective gear.

You do not need to worry as you will only need to get a dental x-ray if your dentist’s evaluation determines that you need one. If you get regular treatments, the fewer x-ray you will need to get to monitor the condition of your teeth. 

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